During his career, Dr Ellis helped families affected by the Hillsborough disaster and stood as chairman of various social enterprises.

Dr Ellis, who is moving back to Sheffield, said: "I am extremely sad to be leaving Lincolnshire. I've grown accustomed to Lincolnshire, I love Lincolnshire.

"I've been privileged to work throughout the whole county, having said that, life's all about beginnings and endings and I'm looking forward to what comes next."

Bishop Tim's career

Started as assistant curate in the parish of St John, Old Trafford

Helped families at hospitals on the day of the Hillsborough disaster

Has a Doctor of Philosophy in church architecture from York University

Spoke out about the cost of Margaret Thatcher's funeral

After studying theology at King's College London and St Augustine's College, Canterbury, Dr Ellis was ordained deacon in Manchester.

He said that was "a particular challenge for someone who is a lifelong supporter of Sheffield Wednesday".

Throughout his tenure in Grantham he was known for the occasional controversy, most noticeably when he spoke out about the cost of Margaret Thatcher's funeral, saying it should have been more "low-key".

He said he hoped he was not the same as other bishops but added: "I am who I am and if who I am tends to be different from what other people in the church are like and their image, then that's as it is.

"But it's not crafted and I don't do it deliberately."

Earlier this year, the Bishop of Lincoln, the Right Reverend Christopher Lowson, said: "Tim has faithfully served in the diocese and we are grateful for his work and ministry, particularly his expertise in church buildings and his work in the challenging urban areas of the diocese.

"We keep Tim and his family in our prayers as he prepares to move on."

Dr Ellis is married to Susan, a special needs coordinator at a school in Sheffield, and they have three, grown-up children.